Music mogul Simon Cowell is stepping back from one of his TV roles to spend more time with his family, sources claim.
The X-Factor judge is scaling back his on-screen presence after 20 years on British and US TV.
He has been a constant for Britain’s Got Talent and X-Factor judging panels, but will be replaced by Take That’s Gary Barlow for his new ITV show Walk The Line.
The 62-year-old will still be involved off-screen, working as an executive producer instead of offering his controversial comments on-air as originally planned, writes The Sun.
The superstar suffered a horror accident and needed critical back operations following a crash on an electric bike last year.
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The media boss now wants to devote more time to son Eric and partner Lauren.
There were fears he may have become almost paralysed for life and was treated by round-the-clock carers as he fought to walk again.
After the accident, he has stuck with a low profile.
Despite the decision to take a step back, Cowell is determined to still work on projects in the future – and he’ll keep his seat for the next series of Britain’s Got Talent.
(Image: Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)
Simon said: “This is a situation where I have decided it is right for me to focus on my role as the Creator and Producer as we build up to the hugely exciting launch.
“Gary’s musical pedigree is second to none – and we have known each other a long time now – so I am delighted he is picking up the baton for me for the first series of Walk The Line. I know he will do a fantastic job.”
(Image: SplashNews.com)
The former frontman has worked with Simon before on UK’s version of The X-Factor.
It comes after the media mogul took a step back from US duties last year, being replaced on American’s Got Talent after his accident.
Last night a source close to Simon said: “Everyone at ITV and within Camp Cowell is massively excited about this new project.
(Image: Getty Images)
“It has all the ingredients to be a huge hit. As you can imagine, workaholic Simon has been massively involved from the word ‘go’.
“But given all the upheavals of the past year or so, what with lockdown and his health, he’s decided now is not the time to be front of the camera.
“He’s just finished an exceptionally busy period filming which saw him spending an extended period of time away from home, so he also wants to devote more time to his family in the coming weeks.”
The insider added Simon wants to “steer the ship” instead of being at the forefront.
Walk The Line is dubbed a “high octane musical gameshow” where contestants can win up to £500,000.
Maya Jama, Craig David, and singer Mabel are rumoured to be joining Gary on the judging panel.
ITV said: “We are delighted that Gary has decided to join the Walk The Line family and we understand and support Simon’s decision to focus on his role as producer and creator for this debut series.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
